circular file: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "circular file" is commonly used in American English and has an established meaning within the language. This particular idiom refers to something being discarded, usually a document, by putting it in the trash or wastepaper basket. The usage of this idiom often conveys a sense of dismissiveness or lack of importance placed on the item being discarded.

The term "circular file" is a euphemism for the trash or wastepaper basket. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the early 20th century when office workers would use actual circular containers, such as cans or baskets, to dispose of unwanted papers. The circular shape of these containers led to the term "circular file" being used to refer to the act of throwing something away.

The idiom is typically used in a professional or formal context, particularly in office settings. It is often employed humorously or ironically to downplay the significance of something that is being discarded, suggesting that it is not worth further consideration or attention. For example, a manager may say, "Just file that report in the circular file" to indicate that the report is not important enough to be taken seriously.

One related idiom is "dirt file." This idiom refers to a collection of unfavorable or damaging information about someone that can be used to discredit or harm their reputation. While the term "dirt file" may not be as widely known as "circular file," it shares a similar concept of discarding or hiding information that is considered negative or undesirable. In a sense, both idioms involve getting rid of something that is seen as undesirable or unimportant.

Another related idiom is "circle the drain," which is often used to describe a situation or condition that is rapidly deteriorating or close to its end. This idiom conveys a sense of impending doom or inevitable failure. While the phrase "circle the drain" may not directly relate to the act of discarding something, it shares a similar idea of something going down or being thrown away. It suggests that whatever is circling the drain is on its way out and will soon be discarded or lost.

The idiom "go round in circles" is another related idiom that means to repeatedly discuss or consider the same issues or topics without making progress or reaching a conclusion. This idiom conveys a sense of confusion or disorganization. While "circular file" may not directly involve discussing or considering something repeatedly, it shares a similar idea of going in circles or not moving forward. In both idioms, there is a lack of progress or resolution, leading to a sense of frustration or futility.

"circle back" is another related idiom that means to revisit or return to a previous topic or issue. This idiom is often used in a business or professional context to indicate the need to revisit or follow up on something that was previously discussed or considered. While "circular file" may not involve revisiting or returning to something, it shares a similar idea of going back or revisiting. In both idioms, there is a sense of repetition or returning to a previous state.

The idiom "full circle" is another related idiom that means to return to a previous state or situation, often with a sense of completion or closure. This idiom conveys a sense of coming full circle or returning to where one started. While "circular file" may not involve returning to a previous state, it shares a similar idea of something being discarded or thrown away. In both idioms, there is a sense of closure or completion, whether it is discarding an item or returning to a previous state or situation.

Overall, the idiom "circular file" is widely used and understood in American English. It refers to the act of discarding something, particularly a document, by putting it in the trash or wastepaper basket. The usage of this idiom often conveys a sense of dismissiveness or lack of importance placed on the item being discarded. In addition, there are several related idioms that share similar concepts or ideas, such as "dirt file," "circle the drain," "go round in circles," "circle back," and "full circle." These idioms provide additional context and understanding of the concept of discarding or getting rid of something, whether it is unfavorable information, a deteriorating situation, a repetitive discussion, a revisiting of a topic, or a return to a previous state or situation.